Sanil Kumar, Doctoral Research Scholar, Department of Architecture and Planning, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee and Shastri Research Student Fellow, York University

This illustrated presentation discusses the unique aspects of India’s longest lake, Vembanad Kol, which is surrounded by the Kuttanad Wetland Region, in the state of Kerala. The ecosystem is the only location in India where paddy farming has been practiced for over two centuries. It is also known as the ‘Venice of the East’ owing to its unique canal system and waterways with tourism avenues operated through unique houseboats. The seminar discusses the author’s current research into this unique wetland and the need for its better management through a series of participatory planning strategies. The work, in collaboration with local authorities, residents, and field experts, focuses on preparation of an integrated planning framework for this wetland region. Sustainable management of the wetlands must consider ‘wise use’ of resources with possibilities of sustainable livelihoods for the residents.

Sanil Kumar is a doctoral research scholar in the Department of Architecture and Planning, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee, Uttarakhand State, India. He received a graduate degree in architecture from School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India, and a master’s degree in urban and rural planning from IIT Roorkee. He has been a recipient of IIT Masters Sandwich Programme 2014-15, sponsored by DAAD, Germany, and the Shastri Research Student Fellowship 2018-19, supported by the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, India. He is now working at York University under the guidance of Patricia E. Perkins, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University. He has worked in the field of architecture and planning, serving as an architect, architectural journalist, urban planner and associate professor of architecture and planning. His other interests include linguistics, cultural studies and endurance running.

This event is presented by the York Centre for Asian Research, the Faculty of Environmental Studies with thanks to the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, India.